[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 140 (Friday, September 30, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: September 30, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
      JAPAN'S TRADING PRACTICES SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO A SUPER 301 
                             INVESTIGATION

                                 ______


                            HON. L.F. PAYNE

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 30, 1994

  Mr. PAYNE of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, today the President will decide 
whether or not to initiate a Super 301 Investigation of Japan's trading 
practices.
  Two years ago, the Japanese Government committed to substantially 
increase market access for competitive foreign firms. Despite this 
pledge and ensuing negotiators, figures released last week show the 
U.S. trade deficit with Japan jumping 20 percent.
  Japan's flat glass market, mostly closed to United States 
manufacturers, provides an ideal case for a Super 301 Investigation. 
For the last 20 years, a cartel of three Japanese flat glass makers 
have divided the market between themselves and kept foreign competition 
out. Even Japan's own fair trade commission recognizes the monopoly 
created by collusion between these three companies.
  American flat glass makers complete successfully in open markets 
around the world. In 1992, American flat glass makers exported $722 
million in flat glass products. Yet, the United States share of the 
Japanese market continues to decline.
  It is time for Japanese leaders to recognize that trade with the 
United States must be nondiscriminatory and fair. I urge the President 
to name Japan's practices in the flat glass market as a priority for a 
Super 301 Investigation.

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